Happy family trip

Our trip to Hong Kong was a success! Daddy, mommy and baby were in close proximity for nine straight days, and we spent great quality time together as a family. On certain days, we would visit relatives and on others, we became tourists and did our fair share of sightseeing. Places we went included the Peak, Ngo Ping 360 and Tai O. And of course, we went shopping. That is definitely something on the itinerary not to be missed.

This trip was significant to us in other ways. EV met her great grandmother for the first time, an occasion I hold dear to my heart. At first, EV was frightened of her great grandmother, as she was at a stage where she recognises people. With time, she warmed up, and by the end of the trip, she was enjoying her great grandmother’s company. Other grand uncles and grand aunts also saw her for the first time, and EV was definitely showered with love.

So as a mother, what was it like bringing a nine month old baby for a trip? Firstly, one’s mind set is definitely important. A relaxed mind with a ‘take it as it comes’ attitude is crucial. After all, I’ve done whatever preparations I could, and was fully equipped with every baby necessity I could think of. One of the major worry I had was the flight to and from Hong Kong. How would EV react to the changes in air pressure? Would she cry and brawl? I had her water, snacks, toys and nursing cover all prepared. And I must say, the last item cam in really handy - I ended up breastfeeding her most of the plane trip to Hong Kong. EV was tired (we took a 6am morning flight), and she wanted to sleep, and she was slightly frustrated because she was in a strange place without her bed. Breastfeeding, to me, was the best way to soothe her while ensuring that she experienced as little discomfort as possible. It also helped her to sleep. But the moment we landed in Hong Kong, she was joyfully enjoying the cool weather and all that happened on the plane was but forgotten.

When it came to feeding EV, Daddy and mommy also adopted a ‘take it as it comes’ attitude. Direct breastfeeding was the main staple, which meant we always had to go to places where I could breastfeed her, and where the trusty Hooter Hiders came in handy. She also had her breast milk by the bottle and cereal with chopped fruits in the mornings. As for bottled food, besides the ones we brought along with us, we also bought different varieties and brands in Hong Kong, including Japanese ones, which EV loved. We also let eat some of the food we ate, like beancurd, fish and soft vegetables. Oh yes, EV also tried steamed milk for the first time, from popular Yee Shun Milk Company in Causeway Bay. She absolutely loved it!!!

The weather too, was something we loved. EV too adored it. She found it extremely easy to nap even when we’re out sightseeing. The Pupsik Studio Baby Pouch Sling was useful in situations like these, as it allowed me to carry EV snugly to me, without straining myself.

EV’s friendly demeanor started to emerge during this trip, when she waved hi to people near us on the MTR train. I must say, we do have a very happy and cheerful baby, which lowers the stress levels, and makes it easier to look after her. Perhaps, it’s because we were in a ‘holiday’ mood. Perhaps, EV felt that and subsequently got into a ‘holiday’ mood herself too. Whatever it was, it was really a good memorable trip.